Emotions ran high on Saturday as family members, journalists, community leaders and sympathisers gathered in Arochukwu to bid farewell to renowned journalist and publisher of Jungle Journalist, Mazi Onukwube ThankGod Ofoelue, who was laid to rest amid tributes celebrating his courage, integrity and commitment to truth.
Speaking during the funeral service, Resident Preacher and Arochukwu Branch President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Enyinnaya Okoroafor, described death as a transition back to the Creator, expressing confidence that the late journalist would find peace in eternity because of the life he lived.
“Death simply means returning home,” he said, urging the bereaved family to take heart despite the painful and irreplaceable loss.
Okoroafor noted that mankind had been given the freedom to choose between good and evil, stressing that those who choose righteousness would reunite with God.
He added that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ had conquered death, which he described as only a temporary separation from the physical body.
Speaking on behalf of the Ofoelue family, Mazi Okoronkwo Hyacinth Ofoelue described the deceased as exceptionally brilliant and intelligent from childhood, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Several dignitaries who attended the burial paid glowing tributes to the late publisher, describing him as a fearless journalist who stood firmly for truth and justice.
A former Abia North Senatorial aspirant, Chief Emeka Charles Kanu, alongside retired Director of Media and Public Relations representing Nzuko Aro Worldwide, Sir Dave E. Imoko, said Ofoelue practised journalism with conviction and integrity.
“He was a journalist who worked with conviction and paid his dues in the kingdom,” they stated, lamenting that his death came too soon.
They described his passing as a monumental loss not only to the Arochukwu Kingdom but also to the wider society, praying for strength and comfort for the bereaved family.
Also speaking, Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, said the late journalist devoted his energy and platform to championing the cause of Ndigbo and remained deeply committed to advocacy driven by conviction.
Among dignitaries present at the burial were Eze Dr. Eberechukwu Oji, represented by his media aide Captain Eugene Okey Imuoh; Eze Ibom; Mazi Amos Kanu Oji; Mazi Ijiomah Obasi Ijiomah; Mazi Chimeremeze Okigbo; Chief Njoku Usen; Prince Emeka Echeta; Mazi Jerry Onwumere; Comrade Eugene Ntonta; Comrade Mathew Mgbo; Professor Chukwu Dozie Okolo; Stella Iheanacho; Sister Erinma; Sister Nnaola Izuogu; and Dr Edward Onyema, among other distinguished mourners.
